Weather in Lukla

Planning a trip to Lukla? Stay up to date with current weather conditions and explore the detailed forecast and charts in this section.

Lukla, as the main gateway to Everest, possesses a characteristic high-altitude climate with a noticeable monsoon influence. The weather here is quite harsh and changeable: do not expect heat even in the warmest months, and average annual temperatures indicate a prevalence of cool and cold conditions. Travellers should be prepared for the air always being fresh here, and nights can be frosty for most of the year.

Seasonal changes are clearly traced throughout the year. Winter (from December to February) is cold here, with average temperatures below zero and night frosts down to -9°C, although precipitation is minimal at this time. Summer, conversely, is the warmest period, when the air warms up to an average of +10...+13°C, but the peak humidity falls precisely on these months.

The most remarkable weather phenomenon in Lukla is the pronounced rainy season. From June to September, the number of days with precipitation reaches 30–31 per month, making summer very wet and overcast. It is important for tourists to consider this factor when planning trekking, as visibility in the mountains during this period may be limited, and trails become washed out.

Lukla's climate is dictated by its high-altitude location, so coolness reigns here throughout the year, and the concept of "heat" is practically inapplicable. The annual temperature range varies from severe winter frosts to moderately warm summers. The coldest month is traditionally January with an average temperature of about -4.7°C and night-time drops to -9.9°C. The peak of warmth occurs in July and August, however, even at this time, the thermometer rarely rises above +13°C during the day, making the summer here fresh rather than hot.

The winter period (from December to February) is characterized by stable negative temperatures, when the air cools on average to -1.8°C...-4.7°C. This time requires serious preparation and warm gear. Summer months bring significant warming: the average temperature holds at the level of +10...+11°C. However, it is worth considering that summer in this region is not only the warmest but also the wettest time of the year, when high cloud cover and precipitation can intensify the sensation of coolness.

An important feature of Lukla's temperature regime is the noticeable diurnal fluctuations. The difference between daytime highs and night-time lows is quite palpable, especially in the transitional seasons and winter. For example, in November or January, it can be relatively comfortable in the sun during the day, but as soon as it sets, the temperature falls rapidly, overcoming a gap of 9–10 degrees. Even in the warmest months, nights remain bracing (about +8°C), so warm clothing is necessary for travellers year-round.

The climate of Lukla is characterized by pronounced seasonality, where the nature of precipitation depends directly on the temperature and time of year. Due to the city's high-altitude location, snow prevails here in winter, while rains brought by monsoons dominate in summer. It is important for travellers to consider that even with a small total volume of precipitation in millimetres, the frequency of bad weather can be high.

The wettest period lasts from June to September. In these months, especially in July and August, precipitation falls almost daily (up to 31 "wet" days per month). July is the record holder for moisture (an average of 22 mm). Fog and drizzling rains are frequent in this season, which can significantly affect visibility and, consequently, the operation of the local airport.

Winter months (December, January, February), as well as November, are considered the "driest" in terms of precipitation volume — their level falls to 1–2 mm. However, due to negative average temperatures (in January about -4.7°C), this moisture falls as snow. The most stable month with the fewest days with precipitation is December (about 8 days).

Transitional seasons, such as spring and autumn, demonstrate a shift in weather conditions. In October, rains gradually retreat (about 4 mm of precipitation), making the weather clearer, whereas in April and May, humidity begins to rise before the arrival of the summer monsoon. When planning a trip, it is worth remembering that weather in the mountains is changeable even in relatively dry months.

Since Lukla is the high-altitude gateway to the Himalayas, the weather here remains cool even in the warmest months, so the main principle when packing should be layering. The basis of your wardrobe will consist of quality thermal underwear, fleece jackets, and a reliable insulated jacket (a down jacket is best), as in winter and early spring, the temperature often drops below zero, reaching -10°C. A hat, scarf, and warm gloves will be useful to you all year round, as evenings in the mountains are always cold.

If your trip falls during the period from June to September, be prepared for high humidity: statistics show up to 30 rainy days per month. At this time, a waterproof membrane jacket, a quality rain poncho, and a backpack cover become mandatory elements of equipment. Pay special attention to footwear: you will need sturdy, broken-in trekking boots with a good tread that will protect your ankles and will not get wet on damp trails.

Do not underestimate the mountain sun either. Due to the altitude, ultraviolet radiation here is very aggressive, so be sure to put sunglasses with a high degree of protection and cream with SPF 50+ in your backpack. Also, bring a moisturising lip balm and a rich face cream to protect your skin from chapping in the cold mountain air.